Birding Sumatera

Overview

The Sumatra Kerinci Birding Tour offers an immersive 6-day birdwatching experience in the biodiverse rainforest of Sumatra. 

Itinerary

Birding at Kerinci Seblat National Park

Kerinci Seblat National Park is situated along the Barisan mountain range in western Sumatra and encompasses Mount Kerinci, which stands as the highest peak on the island at 3,805 meters. This montane park is characterized by its active volcanoes, hot springs, rivers, caves, waterfalls, and Lake Gunung Tujuh, recognized as the highest caldera lake in Southeast Asia. The park is also notable for the Great Sumatran Fault that runs through it, drawing interest from geologists, and it surrounds the populated Kerinci Valley.

The park is known for its remarkable biodiversity, housing over 4,000 plant species, including the renowned Rafflesia Arnoldii and Titan arum. Its wildlife is equally impressive, featuring several rare and endangered species such as the Sumatran tiger. Other notable big cats in the area include clouded leopards, marbled cats, leopard cats, and Asian golden cats, as well as species like Sumatran dholes, elephants, Sunda clouded leopards, Malayan tapirs, and Malayan sun bears. The Sumatran muntjac, a deer species thought to have been lost since the 1900s, has also been rediscovered within the park.

Kerinci Seblat is particularly significant for birdwatching, with over 370 bird species identified, including the Sumatran ground cuckoo, which was rediscovered in 2002. The park is home to 17 of Sumatra's 20 endemic bird species, making it an essential location for ornithologists and birdwatchers alike.

Kerinci Birding Tour: 6 Days / 5 Nights – Explore Sumatra’s Avian Paradise

The Sumatra Kerinci Birding Tour offers an immersive 6-day birdwatching experience in the biodiverse rainforest of Sumatra. Participants will explore the enchanting slopes of Mount Kerinci Seblat National Park and the verdant lowlands along Tapan Road, allowing for the opportunity to observe some of Sumatra’s rarest endemic bird species. Highlights include sightings of the elusive Schneider’s Pitta, the Sumatran Cochoa, and the stunning Salvadori’s Pheasant. With expert birding guides leading the journey, this tour is ideal for avid birders eager to discover new species, engage in adventure, and contribute to conservation efforts.

Birding Itinerary Overview

Day 1: Arrival at Padang Airport – Travel to Kerinci
Upon arrival at Padang Airport, participants will be picked up for a scenic seven-hour drive to Kersik Tuo, Kerinci. The journey will take you through picturesque hills, dense forests, and local villages, with occasional stops for birdwatching around Danau Kerinci and nearby swamps or rice paddies. Overnight accommodation will be provided at Subandi Home Stay or a similar establishment.

Day 2-3: Birding in Kerinci National Park 
Participants will enjoy two full days of birdwatching within Gunung Kerinci National Park, which is renowned for its diverse avian species. Key species to look out for include the Sumatran Frogmouth, Schneider’s Pitta, Salvadori’s Pheasant, Red-billed Partridge, and the striking Bronze-tailed Peacock Pheasant. Additional highlights include the Sumatran Whistling Thrush, Golden and Rusty-breasted Wren-Babbler, Rajah Scops Owl, Sumatran Blue Robin, as well as several others such as the Sumatran Trogon, Black Eagle, and various minivets and fantails. The elusive Sumatran Ground Cuckoo can also be spotted in the Danau Kaco area.

Day 4: Kerinci – Excursion to Danau Kaco – Sungai Penuh
On Day 4, the focus will be on birdwatching at Danau Kaco, specifically targeting the Sumatran Ground Cuckoo. After birding, participants will drive to Sungai Penuh where they will stay at the DVania Hotel or Kerinci Hotel in the town.

Day 5: Sungai Penuh – Birdwatching along Tapan Road 
This day involves a full agenda of birdwatching along Tapan Road, which is known for its rich biodiversity. Birdwatchers can expect to see species such as the Graceful Pitta, Barred Cuckoo-Doves, and various sunbirds including Temminck’s Sunbird. Other notable sightings may include the Sumatran Green Pigeon, Cinereous Bulbul, Wreathed Hornbill, Red-headed Trogon, and multiple species of flowerpeckers and bulbuls. 

Day 6: Tapan Road Birding – Return to Padang 
The final day will begin with an early morning birding session along Tapan Road before the group departs for Padang. The drive back to Padang takes approximately six hours, concluding the birding adventure. Participants will either check into a local hotel or head directly to Padang Airport, marking the end of the trip. 

Tour Pricing
1 Person: 3.000 USD per person
2 to 3 People: 2.400 USD per person
4 to 6 People: 1.800 USD per person

What's Included in the Trip

The tour package covers a range of amenities to enhance your experience, including:

- Private car transportation
- Comfortable accommodations
- Park entry permits
- Snacks, coffee, and tea
- Meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
- Mineral water
- A selection of snacks
- Room accommodations based on twin sharing
- Experienced local guides
- Comprehensive logistics support 

This thoughtful inclusion ensures a seamless and enjoyable journey for all participants.